Program Overview
The museum field continues to expand because of the ongoing process of collecting, preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting historically significant items. The Musuem Studies certificate adds value to a variety of degree programs by providing a foundation for students interested in working in museums, in educational and interpretive centers, or in similar organizations promoting public outreach and education. In addition, the program provides a foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in Museum Studies. The program emphasizes the visitor experience throughout all aspects of museum decision-making and planning processes. Students in the program will learn about the inner operations of nonprofit and arts and cultural heritage organizations; have an opportunity to work directly with objects and artifacts; become immersed in current museum methods and cultural heritage literature; and learn about networking and resume-building opportunities.
To earn the Museum Studies Certificate, students must successfully complete two museum core courses, ART 3100 Museum Fundamentals I and ART 3922 Museum Fundamentals II - Practicum , and 15 credit hours of approved electives taken from a minimum of two areas.
Admissions Information
Admission requires junior or senior standing, a letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the major discipline of the student, and an application essay stating how the Museum Studies Certificate program meets the academic goals of the student. The recommendation and essay should be submitted to Sandra Harris, harriss3@ohio.edu . Acceptance into the program is based on the review of these materials.
Opportunities Upon Graduation
Students representing a broad range of disciplines participate in the Museum Studies Certificate program. This program helps prepare students interested in working at museums, in educational and interpretive centers, or in similar organizations promoting public outreach and education. In addition, the program provides a foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in Museum Studies.